Piezoelectric Accelerometer Seismic Mass Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing acceleration measuring devices face challenges in cost-effective manufacturing and efficient detection of both positive and negative accelerations, with limitations in mechanical robustness and production economics.

Innovation Solution

The acceleration measuring device incorporates a seismic mass with two mass elements that function independently and cooperatively, allowing for the simultaneous detection of positive and negative piezoelectric charges, which are easily connected electrically and mechanically, and features a preloading assembly that applies a higher clamping force for enhanced signal pickup.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a single mass element is used in the seismic mass, then the device structure is simpler, but the ability to detect both positive and negative accelerations simultaneously is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveacceleration detection capabilityVSAvoidseismic mass structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The seismic mass is divided into two separate mass elements (first mass element and second mass element) that can be electrically connected in parallel. Each mass element is associated with its own piezoelectric system, allowing independent detection of positive and negative accelerations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If a preloading assembly is added to apply clamping force, then the signal pickup efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal detection efficiencyVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The preloading assembly applies a clamping force to the piezoelectric system in advance, before acceleration measurement begins. This preliminary mechanical preloading ensures that the piezoelectric elements are properly contacted and positioned, thereby improving signal pickup efficiency without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If two mass elements are used with independent electrical connections, then the detection of positive and negative charges is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharge detection capabilityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The two mass elements are electrically connected in parallel, merging their electrical outputs into a unified signal pathway. This configuration allows both mass elements to contribute to the detection of positive and negative charges simultaneously, while the parallel connection simplifies the electrical circuitry and reduces manufacturing complexity compared to independent connection schemes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This design enables cost-effective production and improved signal detection capabilities, with a 100% to 500% higher clamping force compared to prior art, allowing for robust and efficient acceleration measurement across a wide temperature range.

Implementation Method 1

When the acceleration measuring device undergoes acceleration, the seismic mass exerts on the piezoelectric system a force that is proportional to its acceleration, wherein said force generates piezoelectric charges in the piezoelectric system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10871504B2Acceleration measuring device and method for the production of an acceleration measuring device of said type
Publication Date: 2020.12.22 KISTLER HLDG AG
  • US10871504B2 patent drawing
  • US10871504B2 patent drawing
  • US10871504B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An acceleration measuring device includes a piezoelectric system, a seismic mass, and a base plate. The seismic mass exerts onto the piezoelectric system, a force that is proportional to the acceleration. The piezoelectric system responds to the force by generating piezoelectric charges that are electrically transmitted as acceleration signals. The seismic mass includes a first mass element responsible for generating positive piezoelectric charges. The seismic mass includes a second mass element responsible for generating negative piezoelectric charges.